Outline Template
I. Introduction
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First sentence: “hook” or attention-getter—something that will interest the reader in your
topic
Sentences 2-5: begin to narrow your topic and provide more detail
Thesis statement: in one sentence, outline the main points of your paper: point 1, point 2,
point 3 (could be more or fewer than 3 points)
II. Point 1
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First sentence: introduce the point of the paragraph
Sentences 2-5: provide more information about/support for the point
Conclusion of the paragraph and transition sentence: complete the point and try to tie it to
the next paragraph
III. Point 2
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First sentence: Introduce the point of the paragraph and transition from the previous
paragraph
Sentences 2-5: provide more information about/support for the point
Conclusion of the paragraph and transition sentence: complete the point and try to tie it to
the next paragraph
VI. Point 3
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First sentence: Introduce the point of the paragraph and transition from the previous
paragraph
Sentences 2-5: provide more information about/support for the point
Conclusion of the paragraph and transition sentence: complete the point and try to tie it to
the next paragraph
V. Conclusion
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Restate your thesis: repeat the points you have addressed in your paper
Sentences 2-5: avoid introducing new material; mention any realizations or next steps,
based on your paper
Conclusion sentence: create a lasting impression to leave the audience with, so they
remember your paper
Note: This outline serves as a general guide. It may not be appropriate for all writing
assignments. Different writing assignments may require more or fewer paragraphs and more or
fewer sentences within paragraphs.